Chief Executive Officer

The Ozarks Regional YMCA is seeking a visionary, mission-driven leader to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer.

Job Description

EXECUTIVE VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
OZARKS REGIONAL YMCA

Position: Chief Executive Officer


Address: 323 N Patton Ave, Springfield, MO 65806


Website:


THE OPPORTUNITY
The Ozarks Regional YMCA is seeking a visionary, mission-driven leader to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a respected, multi-branch YMCA association with a proud 137-year history of strengthening communities across Southwest Missouri.


The organization enters its next chapter from a position of renewed strength. Through focused leadership and the commitment of an engaged board and dedicated staff team, the YMCA has strengthened operations, improved organizational stability, and established a clear strategic direction for future growth. The next CEO will have the opportunity to build upon this momentum while expanding the YMCA's impact throughout the region.


Serving nearly 20,000 members through multiple branches, childcare programs, camps, and community initiatives, the Ozarks Regional YMCA is uniquely positioned to address some of the region's most pressing needs, including youth development, affordable childcare, water safety, chronic disease prevention, and community well-being.


The Board of Directors seeks a collaborative and strategic leader who will inspire others, build meaningful partnerships, strengthen philanthropic support, and elevate the YMCA's visibility as one of the region's leading nonprofit organizations. The successful candidate will possess the vision to identify emerging opportunities, the operational expertise to execute effectively, and the relationship-building skills necessary to unite stakeholders around a shared vision for community impact.


Above all, the CEO will champion a culture rooted in the YMCA's mission, values, and unwavering commitment to youth protection. The safety and well-being of children will remain central to every decision, program, and interaction across the association.


WHY THIS LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY MATTERS
The next CEO will join the Ozarks Regional YMCA at a pivotal and exciting moment in its history. Key opportunities include:

• Leading the implementation of an ambitious strategic vision focused on childcare access, water safety, health improvement, and community connection.
• Advancing a proposed $6 million capital development initiative designed to expand community impact and enhance recreational opportunities for families throughout the region.
• Building upon a strong foundation of community trust while elevating the YMCA's role as a leading convener, collaborator, and advocate for healthy communities.
• Strengthening long-term financial sustainability through philanthropy, earned revenue growth, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships.
• Developing and empowering the next generation of YMCA leaders while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• For an accomplished executive seeking meaningful work and the opportunity to create lasting impact, the Ozarks Regional YMCA offers both a significant leadership challenge and an extraordinary platform for community transformation.

Qualifications

Criteria for candidates:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college is preferred.

• Equivalent professional experience is required.

• Experience working across multiple locations and sites is preferred.

• Demonstrated fiscal management expertise, with a proven track record of overseeing annual budgets of $8 million or more.

• At least five years of senior management experience within a YMCA or a comparable organization, including direct supervision of staff across multiple levels.

Essential Functions

KEY SKILLS AND ABILITIES OF OUR NEXT CEO
The board believes its new CEO should be an experienced leader who has the background and qualities that will permit him or her to achieve excellence in the following roles:


Implement the Vision and Strategic Priorities: Collaborate effectively with volunteers, community leaders, and key staff to develop and execute a strategic plan that addresses the evolving needs of the communities served by the Y. Ensure the plan includes clearly defined organizational strategies, actionable implementation steps, measurable outcomes, and accountability for results. Key competencies: Change Leadership, Communication & Influence, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Program/Project Management


Improve Operating Performance: Partner with the board and staff leadership to develop and implement an annual operational plan that advances organizational goals while promoting safe, relevant, and sustainable practices. Proactively identify and address challenges, anticipate future needs, and provide effective oversight of the Y’s operations, programs, and services. Key competencies: Developing Self & Others, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Innovation


Fiscal Management: Apply advanced financial analysis and forecasting to support the organization’s long-term growth, stability, and sustainability. Consistently lead the Y toward balanced or surplus operations through revenue growth, philanthropic support, and prudent cost management. Empower and support staff leaders in achieving strong financial performance within their areas of responsibility, while developing and implementing effective stewardship strategies. Key competencies: Fiscal Management, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Developing Self & Others, Philanthropy


Position the Y as a Vital Partner for Community Change: Serve as a visible and credible ambassador for the YMCA’s mission, vision, and values throughout the community. Build and strengthen relationships with diverse stakeholders, community partners, and civic leaders while consistently demonstrating the highest standards of integrity and service. Ensure the Y is recognized as a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. Key competencies: Communication & Influence, Engaging Community, Collaboration


Steward Fundraising Efforts: Develop and execute a comprehensive annual fundraising strategy that engages members, volunteers, staff, donors, and community partners in advancing the YMCA’s mission. Assess and pursue opportunities for capital development while expanding the organization’s effectiveness and impact in annual giving, major gifts, and endowment growth. Key competencies: Philanthropy, Engaging Community, Communication & Influence


Lead a High-Performing Team: Develop and implement a comprehensive talent development strategy that promotes a supportive, inclusive, and culturally competent workplace. Recruit, develop, and retain a diverse and high-performing team that reflects and serves the community. Foster a culture of collaboration, shared accountability, continuous learning, and leadership development across the organization. Key competencies: Developing Self & Others, Inclusion, Emotional Maturity, Change Leadership


ASSOCIATION SNAPSHOT
The Ozarks Regional YMCA is a long-standing nonprofit organization based in Southwest Missouri, founded in Springfield in 1888, with a mission centered on strengthening community through inclusive programs and services. Rooted in Christian principles, the organization focuses on building healthy spirit, mind, and body for all people, regardless of age, background, or financial situation.


The Ozarks Regional YMCA is supported by a strong, mission-driven staff team in partnership with the board committed to serving the diverse needs of the communities across its service area. Staff and leadership bring a blend of experience, collaboration, and passion for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a culture that emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement, the organization is well-positioned to deliver high-quality programs and services. The strength of the team is reflected in its ability to adapt, innovate, and build meaningful relationships that advance the YMCA’s impact throughout the region.


The Ozarks Regional YMCA continues to reflect a commitment to excellence in everything we do. We focus our work in three key areas of impact, because nurturing the potential of children, helping people live healthier and supporting our neighbors are fundamental to strengthening communities. We believe that to bring about meaningful change in individuals and communities, we must be focused and accountable.


Through its network of family centers, camps, and community initiatives, the YMCA provides opportunities for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, offering programs such as childcare, sports, wellness activities, and community outreach. With a strong commitment to accessibility, the Ozarks Regional YMCA also provides financial assistance to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, making it a vital resource for individuals and families across the region.


Our Mission:
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.


Our Cause & Values:
To strengthen the foundations of community and instill the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.


Current Key Association Strategic Initiatives:

• Priority One: Our YMCA Association will consistently demonstrate operational rigor and sophistication with programs, processes, and practices
• Priority Two: Quality, affordable childcare will be accessible to every working parent/guardian
• Priority Three: Everyone in our community will gain water safety skills and education
• Priority Four: Our community will feel connected and supported, experiencing an improved quality of life and mental health.
• Priority Five: All YMCA locations will offer chronic health programs
• Priority Six: 3,500 Children will experience nature through Camp Wakonda and its programs

Membership:

• Total Number of Members: 19,517
• Total Number of Membership Units: 10,096
  • 9% Youth
  • 17% Adults
  • 24% Household
  • 48% Senior

Financial Assistance Provided: 2025, 3,812 members and 372 program participants


Branch Information:

• Pat Jones YMCA, 1901 E Republic Road, Springfield MO 65804
• Cassville YMCA, 408 MO-248, Cassville, MO 65625
• Monett Area YMCA, 115 S Lincoln Avenue, Monett, MO 65708
• Dallas County YMCA, 932 W Main Street, Buffalo, MO 65622
• Lebanon Family YMCA, 500 E Elm Street, Lebanon, MO 65536
• School Age Services Branch, 323 N Patton Avenue, Springfield, MO 65806
• Camp Wakonda, 22237 Lawrence 2080, Ash Grove, MO 65604

Core Programs:

• Aquatics
• Out of School Time: Before and After School, Day Camp including 21 Sites for Before and After Care
• Early Childhood Education Center - Hollister, MO
• Youth Sports
• Group Exercise
• Personal Training
• Chronic Disease Prevention
• Youth and Adult Sports
• Resident summer camp
• Outdoor Education (school year program)

Annual Support Campaign:

• Prior Year’s Total: $302,750
• Current Year’s Goal: $450,00 (Goal achieved!)
• Total number of people receiving financial assistance prior year: 4,184

Capital Campaign(s):


Current Proposed multi-million-dollar project: Pat Jones Family Recreation Center. Includes: Adaptive sports field, adaptive playground, splash pad, concession stand, bathroom facilities, 7 dedicated pickleball courts (plus 6 additional courts on multi-use playing areas), a full-size basketball court with volleyball and pickleball capabilities and a covered, full-size basketball court pavilion that has pickleball and volleyball as well.


Staff:

• FT: 38
• PT: 440
• Seasonal: 30

CEO Direct Reports:

• CFO
• Sr VP of Operations
• VP of Development
• VP of Facilities and Risk Management

Governing Board of Directors:

• Number of Governing Board Members: 16
• Committees:
  • Executive
  • Finance
  • Board Governance

Financial:

• Current Annual Budget Size: $9.7M
• Current Debt: $3.8M
• Current cash and investments: $3.8M
• Current Endowment: $1.2M
• 3-year annual surplus/deficit:
  • Last year: ($350K)
  • Previous year: ($2.2M)
  • Previous year: ($218K)

About the Area:
Living and working in Springfield, Missouri offers an attractive combination of opportunity, affordability, and quality of life. With a cost of living below the national average, strong schools, welcoming neighborhoods, short commutes, and easy access to the Ozarks’ lakes and trails, Springfield is an excellent place to build a career, raise a family, and enjoy an active lifestyle.


The community also offers a vibrant downtown, with live music, breweries, restaurants, entertainment, museums, theaters, and year-round events. Springfield is home to major employers and nationally recognized companies, including Bass Pro Shops, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Prime Inc. The original Bass Pro Shops have become a major destination and is home to the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium. Springfield also holds a unique place in American history as the Birthplace of Route 66, where the famous highway received its name in 1926. That heritage is celebrated annually with a major Route 66 festival and car show.


The city is highly accessible, with convenient nonstop air service to major destinations and easy driving access to Kansas City, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Northwest Arkansas. Strong healthcare, education, retail, transportation, and other industries provide diverse career opportunities. Springfield offers the best of both worlds: professional opportunity and an affordable, connected community where there is still time to enjoy what matters most.


Salary Range: $160,000 to $180,000


Benefits:

• YMCA Retirement (11% paid by Y) contribution once eligibility is met
• YMCA 403B savings account
• Health plan (70% paid by Y, 30% by employee)
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Based on years of service.
• Other benefits provided per personnel policy

Residency Expectation: Residency within the YMCA’s service area is required. The CEO is expected to be an active, visible presence in the communities served, building strong relationships with members, stakeholders, and partners while representing the YMCA’s mission and values.


Information Sites:


Ozarks Regional YMCA:
Greene County, Missouri -
Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce -
Republic Area Chamber of Commerce -
Willard Chamber of Commerce -
Christian County, Missouri -
City of Nixa, Missouri -
Ozark Chamber of Commerce -
Rogersville Area Chamber of Commerce -
Missouri State University -
Drury University -
Evangel University -
Ozarks Technical Community College -
Southwest Baptist University -
Mercy Hospital Springfield -
CoxHealth -
Springfield Public Schools -
Republic School District -
Willard Public Schools -
Nixa Public Schools -
Ozark School District -
City of Rogersville, Missouri -
Bass Pro Shops (Flagship Store) -
Dickerson Park Zoo -
Birthplace of Route 66 Festival -
Table Rock Lake -
Table Rock State Park -
Visit Springfield, Missouri -
Big Cedar Lodge -
Silver Dollar City -


Search Process Target Dates:

• Resumes accepted through: October 1, 2026
• Preliminary interviews scheduled: November 2-3, 2026
• In-person interviews: November 16-17
• CEO selection made after in person interviews
• New CEO on board (anticipated): December 15, 2026

References, Background Check, and Organizational Leader Certification:
Candidates must submit (pdf format only) the following in their online application: a resume, cover letter. Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.


Candidates who advance to final interviews will need to submit six references (four professional and two personal). References checked only with prior notification. Successful candidate accepting the offer must pass a background check and must have a current Y-USA’s Organizational Leader Certification or obtain certification within the first three years from start date as the CEO. The YMCA's personnel policies may require further screening.


Candidates must apply via the following website:

Questions about the Search Process?
Contact Richard Clegg, CEO Search Senior Consultant, YMCA of the USA, [email protected] .


Questions about the YMCA?
Contact Patty Miller, CEO, MO/KS Alliance of YMCAs, [email protected] .


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